Anchor Verses: John 10:27, Romans 8:14, Acts 13:2
Introduction: The Why – Scripture as the Space Where the Spirit Speaks
- “Hearing” from the Holy Spirit must begin with knowing scripture
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness…”
- John 14:26: “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
- Application: Every believer—new or mature—must approach the Bible expecting to hear from God. Our secret place is where the Spirit comes alive through God’s Word, transforming us from within.
The Basics: How to Read Scripture
- Read with Dependence on the Holy Spirit
- 1 Corinthians 2:12-14:
- The Spirit enables us to understand God’s wisdom.
- Always begin your reading time by praying, “Holy Spirit, help me understand and apply this.”
- 1 Corinthians 2:12-14:
- Read with Context
- Example: Jeremiah 29:11
- Often quoted out of context; learn to ask: Who wrote this? To whom? What were the circumstances?
- Consider: How does this passage ultimately point us to Jesus?
- Read with Application
- James 1:22: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
- The SOAP Method:
- Scripture: Read a passage.
- Observation: Note what it says.
- Application: Determine how it applies to your life.
- Prayer: Ask God to help you live it out.
Challenge for Seasoned Believers: Deepening Your Engagement
- Read with a Desire for Transformation, Not Just Information
- Psalm 119:11:
- Hide God’s Word in your heart; ask, “How is the Holy Spirit using this passage to convict, encourage, or challenge me?”
- Psalm 119:11:
- Read in Light of the Whole Story of Redemption
- Luke 24:27:
- Understand that all Scripture points to Jesus.
- Challenge yourself to see God’s grand narrative that spans from Genesis to Revelation.
- Luke 24:27:
- Read with a Mindset of Teaching Others
- Hebrews 5:12-14:
- Mature believers should be able to teach and disciple new believers.
- Application: Mentor someone by walking them through Scripture.
- Hebrews 5:12-14:
How Do We Hear from the Holy Spirit?
- Scripture as the Primary Venue for Divine Revelation
- The Holy Spirit speaks predominantly through God’s Word.
- When we approach Scripture in our secret place—quiet, prayerful moments—we create a space where the Spirit can reveal truth, convict our hearts, and guide our decisions.
- Practical Discernment
- 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 (NLT): “Do not stifle the Spirit… test everything and hold on to what is good.”
- Ask these three questions when discerning guidance:
- Does this glorify Jesus?
- Is this in agreement with God’s Word?
- Is this consistent with God’s character?
- Ask these three questions when discerning guidance:
- 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 (NLT): “Do not stifle the Spirit… test everything and hold on to what is good.”
- Understanding Inner Transformation
- Rather than expecting dramatic signs, look for the subtle, life-changing work of the Spirit—as evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
- Reference Dallas Willard’s teaching: if you have never sensed God speaking to you, consider what you might be doing that limits His presence in your life.
Fruit Over Frenzy: The Mark of a Spirit-Filled Life
- Internal Transformation:
- A Spirit-filled life is marked by qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and self-control.
- These traits reflect a deep, ongoing change that influences how believers live and interact.
- Practical Implication:
- Focus on cultivating these fruits as the evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work, rather than seeking sensational manifestations.
Call to Action: Practical Next Steps
- For New Believers:
- Start with the Gospel of John.
- Pray before reading and ask questions.
- Utilize the SOAP method to engage with Scripture.
- For Mature Believers:
- Challenge yourself with a deeper study—memorize Scripture, study a book in depth, or mentor a new believer.
- Embrace a lifestyle where you continually seek to hear from God, allowing the convergence of Scripture, community, and personal reflection to guide your decisions.
- Final Encouragement:
- As John 10:27-28 reminds us, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish…”
- Let us commit to hearing, teaching, and guiding one another—so that our lives may be transformed by the Holy Spirit and our ministry may bear lasting fruit.